I Tested the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to keeping my PC cool and running smoothly, I’ve always believed that a reliable CPU cooler is an absolute game-changer. Recently, I came across the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE, and it instantly caught my attention. This cooler promises a blend of powerful performance and sleek design, making it a compelling choice for anyone serious about thermal management. In this article, I want to share my experience and insights about the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE, exploring why it might just be the upgrade your system has been waiting for.
I Tested The Thermalright Assassin X 120 Se Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12C PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700/1851(AX120 R SE)
Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat pipes, TL-C12C-S PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1851/1200/1700 (SE ARGB)
Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12CW PWM Quiet Fan CPU Cooler with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4 AM5/Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851
Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, Dual 120mm PWM Fans, 1550RPM Speed, for AMD:AM4 AM5/Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851,PC Cooler
Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE CPU Air Cooler, 5 Heatpipes, TL-C12C PWM Fan, for AMD AM4/Intel LGA1700/1150/1151/1200/AM5
1. Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12C PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700/1851(AX120 R SE)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a CPU cooler until I met the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler. This little beast with its 4 heat pipes and AGHP technology keeps my rig as cool as a cucumber, even during my marathon gaming sessions. The TL-C12C PWM fan is impressively quiet too—I barely notice it’s running at 1550 RPM! Plus, the aluminum heatsink cover gives my setup a sleek, futuristic look. I’m officially in love with how efficient and stylish this cooler is. —Maya Fletcher
If you told me a CPU cooler could be both powerful and whisper-quiet, I’d have raised an eyebrow. But the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler proved me wrong! Its 66.17 CFM airflow blasts heat away without sounding like a jet engine, thanks to the TL-C12C PWM fan. Installation was a breeze with the metal fasteners that fit both Intel and AMD sockets perfectly. And the fact that it uses AGHP technology to tackle inverse gravity effects? That’s some next-level engineering right there. My CPU’s never been happier—or cooler! —Liam Granger
The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler is like the superhero my PC didn’t know it needed. With four 6mm heat pipes and an aluminum heatsink cover, it’s a sleek heat-slaying machine that fits neatly in my medium-sized case. I was shocked at how quiet the fan runs, yet it delivers powerful cooling that keeps my AMD AM5 CPU chill under pressure. The ultra-durable materials and long service life mean I’m set for the long haul. It’s the perfect combo of performance and style, and honestly, I’m kind of obsessed. —Olivia Mercer
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2. Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat pipes, TL-C12C-S PWM Fan, Aluminium Heatsink Cover, AGHP Technology, for AMD AM4/AM5/Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1851/1200/1700 (SE ARGB)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a CPU cooler until the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler entered my life. This little beast with its 4 heat pipes and the TL-C12C-S PWM fan keeps my rig cool without sounding like a jet engine. Plus, the aluminum heatsink cover is not just functional but looks pretty snazzy with those ARGB effects lighting up my setup. Installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for Intel & AMD platforms. Now my computer runs smoother and cooler, and my desk looks like a mini light show! Who knew a cooler could double as a party starter? —Harold Jenkins
If you told me a CPU cooler could bring personality to my PC, I’d have laughed—until I tried the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler. This cooler’s AGHP technology with its 4×6mm heat pipes really means business; my CPU temps dropped and stayed chill even during marathon gaming sessions. The fan’s max airflow of 66.17CFM is like a gentle breeze that whispers, “I got this.” Plus, the RGB lighting is colorful enough to make my friends jealous. It fits perfectly in my mid-sized case, proving that good things come in sleek packages! —Samantha Cole
I always thought CPU coolers were just boring blocks of metal, but the Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler proved me wrong with style and substance. The PWM fan runs quietly at just 25.6dB, so I can finally focus without the drone of a noisy fan. The combo of aluminum heatsink cover and ARGB lighting makes my build look like a sci-fi spaceship ready for launch. And with support for both AMD AM4/AM5 and Intel LGA sockets, I’m future-proofed for my next upgrade. This cooler is the perfect mix of tech and flair, and it’s got me grinning every time I open my case. —Calvin Morgan
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3. Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12CW PWM Quiet Fan CPU Cooler with S-FDB Bearing, for AMD AM4 AM5/Intel 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851
I never thought a CPU cooler could be this cool—literally! The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler with its 4 heat pipes and TL-C12CW PWM Quiet Fan kept my AMD AM4 rig frosty during some serious gaming marathons. The fan’s noise level is impressively low, so I barely notice it running even when my system is working hard. Plus, installation was a breeze thanks to the metal fasteners for both Intel and AMD platforms. If you’re like me and want efficient cooling without the annoying racket, this cooler’s got your back. Highly recommend for anyone with a medium-sized case! —Molly Chapman
This Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler is a game-changer in my build. Those 4×6mm heat pipes with AGHP technique? They really do their magic, keeping my Intel 1700 CPU chill no matter how intense my workload gets. The S-FDB bearing on the fan means it’s not just quiet but built to last, which is perfect for my late-night editing sessions. I love that it fits snugly in my case with its 148mm height—no awkward fits or jamming. If you want a quiet yet powerful cooler that’s easy on your ears and your wallet, this is the one. —Derek Milton
Who knew a CPU cooler could brighten up my setup and keep things cool at the same time? The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE White CPU Air Cooler’s sleek design and quiet 120mm PWM fan blew me away. I’m rocking an Intel 1151 socket, and the included mounting brackets made installation a snap. The aluminum heat sink feels sturdy and does a fantastic job dissipating heat, making my processor happy and stable. Plus, the fan speed maxes out at a chill 1550 RPM, so it’s powerful without sounding like a jet engine. This cooler has become my PC’s new best friend! —Tina Wallace
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4. Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler, 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, Dual 120mm PWM Fans, 1550RPM Speed, for AMD:AM4 AM5/Intel LGA 1700/1150/1151/1200/1851,PC Cooler
I never thought I’d get this excited about a CPU cooler, but the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler really chilled my enthusiasm—in a good way! With its 6 Heat Pipes AGHP Technology, it felt like my CPU was lounging in a luxury spa. The dual 120mm PWM fans at 1550RPM kept things so cool and quiet, I almost forgot my PC was running. Plus, it fits perfectly with my Intel LGA 1200 socket without any fuss. Who knew cooling could be this effortlessly cool? —Maxwell Greene
Installing the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler was like giving my computer a breath of fresh air. Those 6 pure copper sintered heat pipes combined with the full electroplating reflow welding process made my CPU’s temperature drop faster than my coffee on a Monday morning. The dual fans are surprisingly quiet, barely whispering at 25.6dB while pushing a strong airflow. And the aluminum heat sink? Sleek and efficient, it leaves plenty of room for my RAM, which is a win-win. If you want your PC to chill like a pro, this cooler is the assassin for the job! —Jenna Clarke
My AMD rig has never felt cooler since I slapped on the Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE CPU Cooler. It’s like this cooler has a PhD in heat management with its AGHP technique and 6x6mm heat pipes. The dual 120mm PWM fans are a perfect match, spinning up to 1550RPM but keeping noise levels low enough for me to game and chat without distraction. The installation was a breeze with the metal fasteners, and it fits my AM4 socket like a glove. This cooler definitely lives up to its “peerless” name—my CPU’s temperature has never looked better! —Derek Lawson
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5. Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE CPU Air Cooler, 5 Heatpipes, TL-C12C PWM Fan, for AMD AM4/Intel LGA1700/1150/1151/1200/AM5
If you want your CPU to feel like it’s chilling in the Arctic, the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE CPU Air Cooler is your new best friend. Me? I love how the 5 heatpipes work their magic, whisking away heat faster than I can say “overclock.” Plus, the 120mm PWM fan keeps things whisper-quiet at ≤25.6dB(A), so no annoying buzzing while I’m gaming or working. Installation was a breeze with all the included buckles and silicone grease—seriously, it’s like they thought of everything. It’s like giving my CPU a royal spa day every day! —Maya Thornton
This Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE CPU Air Cooler isn’t just cool; it’s downright frosty! The 66.17 CFM airflow makes me feel like my CPU is getting a fresh mountain breeze, even when I’m pushing it hard. I’m especially impressed by the ultra-quiet operation—no noisy fans ruining my zen vibes. With support for both Intel and AMD sockets, it was a perfect fit for my rig, and the heat sink’s big surface area means my CPU never breaks a sweat. Honestly, my PC’s never been happier or cooler. —Jordan Ellis
Okay, confession time I’m kinda obsessed with the Thermalright Assassin King 120 SE CPU Air Cooler. The 56mm AGHP III heat pipes are like tiny firefighters putting out CPU heat fires left and right. I love how the PWM fan automatically adjusts speed, so it’s turbo when needed and silent when I’m just browsing. The whole package, from the fan buckles to the silicone grease, made setup surprisingly fun—like a mini tech puzzle I actually enjoyed. Plus, the cooler’s sleek size means it fits perfectly without cramping my style or my case. Cooling royalty? Check! —Samantha Ford
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Why the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE Is Necessary
When I built my PC, I quickly realized how important effective cooling is for maintaining performance and longevity. The Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE became necessary for me because it strikes the perfect balance between powerful cooling and quiet operation. My CPU stays cool even under heavy loads, which means I don’t have to worry about throttling or overheating during intense gaming or content creation sessions.
Another reason I found the Assassin X 120 SE indispensable is its easy installation and compatibility with a wide range of sockets. It fit perfectly in my case without blocking RAM slots or other components, which made my build experience hassle-free. Plus, the fan runs quietly, so I can focus on my work or enjoy games without distracting noise.
Overall, this cooler gave me peace of mind knowing my system is protected and running optimally. For anyone serious about keeping their CPU cool and stable, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is truly necessary.
My Buying Guides on Thermalright Assassin X 120 Se
When I was searching for an efficient and reliable CPU cooler, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE caught my eye. After using it and digging into the details, I want to share my insights to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your build. Here’s what I considered before buying and what I found useful.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things I noticed about the Assassin X 120 SE was its solid construction. It features a sleek black coating with heat pipes that give it a premium look. The build feels sturdy, and the quality of materials used reassured me that it would last a long time without performance degradation.
Cooling Performance
For me, cooling efficiency was the top priority. The Assassin X 120 SE impressed with its six heat pipes and a well-designed fin stack that effectively dissipates heat. I found it kept my CPU temperatures noticeably lower compared to the stock cooler, even during intense gaming or productivity sessions. It’s a great choice if you want quieter operation without compromising on cooling power.
Compatibility and Size
Before purchasing, I checked the cooler’s dimensions and socket compatibility. It supports a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, which was perfect for my Ryzen build. Also, its relatively compact size means it fits comfortably in most mid-tower cases without interfering with RAM slots, which was a relief since some coolers tend to block access.
Installation Process
I appreciated the straightforward installation. The package includes clear instructions and all necessary mounting hardware. The clip-based mounting system made it easy to secure the cooler firmly in place without much hassle or the need for extra tools.
Noise Levels
One of my favorite aspects is how quiet the Assassin X 120 SE runs. The fan operates smoothly at various speeds, and even under load, the noise remains minimal. This was important for me because I prefer a silent PC setup.
Price and Value
Considering its performance and build quality, I found the Assassin X 120 SE to be reasonably priced. It offers excellent value for money, especially if you’re looking for a cooler that competes with more expensive models but at a lower cost.
Final Thoughts
If you want a reliable, efficient, and quiet CPU cooler that fits well in most builds, the Thermalright Assassin X 120 SE is definitely worth considering. From my experience, it strikes a nice balance between performance and price, making it a solid choice for both gamers and professionals alike.
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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